If you’re still not convinced, consider that no two snakeskins (or snake prints) are alike. With finishes, textures, and colors ranging from super-subtle to rough-and-tumble, they’re as diverse as the ladies who love them.

Wednesday, December 29th 2010

Trends are cyclical, and though I’m happy to leave some firmly in the past, there’s one I’m falling for right now: the peplum. Popular in the ’40s (on tailored dresses with collars and buttons) and in the ’80s (exaggerated versions that balanced the era’s padded shoulders and bold prints), the flounce has long been loved for the way it emphasizes the waist and instantly creates an hourglass figure. It’s made a comeback in recent seasons, not least due to the multiple iterations of Preen’s signature peplum dress.

Today’s designers leave behind the busy patterns and bulky details of bygone eras, passing them up in favor of solid colors, streamlined silhouettes, and a modern sensibility. Simple, strapless dresses in winter white by Alice + Olivia and DSQUARED2 are adorned with architectural peplums, and Club Monaco makes a bustier top on-trend with an asymmetrical peplum and a shade of blush pink. For something more relaxed but no less refined, Derek Lam’s cotton version is perfect for a resort getaway now or a garden party come spring.

Tuesday, December 28th 2010

The fall 2010 collections saw a movement away from black toward a less severe set of neutrals. Shades of brown and tan, winter white, and navy blue took center stage on silhouettes that marked a return to classic sophistication. For the resort/holiday season, there has been plenty of glitter and shine, party dresses galore, but the emerging color trend is a softer take on the neutrals that dominated the preceding season. Think cream, ashy grey, peach, moss green, and a lighter shade of camel.

But how to wear these colors that, until recently, were altogether foreign to a fashion world in love with black? Try mixing and matching from head to toe (pick any pieces from the 3.1 Phillip Lim resort collection): cream sweater with moss ankle pants, blush suit with airy white blouse. Or, punctuate the pastels with navy or black (the beloved non-color is never totally out of mind) à la the Club Monaco holiday collection. For the more playful among us, take a whiteout ensemble and bring it to life with a bold pop of color, like a bright DVF scarf or an armful of Marc by Marc Jacobs bangles.

Monday, December 27th 2010

For spring 2011, relaxed luxury is the name of the game. High-waisted trousers, floor-grazing maxi skirts, and sharply tailored separates will still be strong, but for the warmer weather, they’ll be done in dreamy fabrics and sunny hues that recast them with a summer-on-the-Riviera vibe. If you’re itching to get started on next season’s trends, here’s a cheat sheet of trends you can incorporate now:

3) Eye-catching accessories in a fearless shade, like bright red or fuchsia. Next season’s colorful clutches, belts, watches, and wedges will have you feeling like Dorothy stepping into a Technicolor Oz.

Thursday, December 23rd 2010

With the upcoming holidays (and months of sub-zero temperatures), ’tis the season to stay inside. But that doesn’t mean you have to hole up in the sweats you’ve had since high school. This quick home-for-the-holidays checklist will ensure you’re comfy enough for lounging yet stylish enough for that midmorning coffee run.

1) T by Alexander Wang Hoodie–Layer this over a T by Alexander Wang tee for a look with a little more style than your cat-print PJs.

2) Elevated Sweatpants–A pair of flattering So Low pants or slouchy, vintage-inspired Monrow pants are perfect whether you’re ambitious enough for yoga or only up for eating leftovers on the couch.

Wednesday, December 22nd 2010

When it comes to jeans, my comfort zone ranges from J Brand skinnies to, well, J Brand skinnies. Needless to say, I was surprised to find myself attracted to the flare jeans that dominated the fall runways. Inspired to expand my denim horizons, I turned to Shopbop stylist Pa for some tips on how to sport bells without compromising the sleek look I’ve come to love.

Rebecca:I tend to think of flares as more casual than skinny jeans. How can I dress them up?Pa: Simple! Choose a clean dark wash and keep the rest of your look minimal by tucking in a blouse and adding a skinny leather belt. Bonus: flares are super flattering to most body types, and they’re leg-lengthening when paired with heels.

R:It’s officially winter, and I go nowhere without a heavy coat. How can I pair parkas and flares without looking too bulky? P: Again, keep things minimal and linear. Try a longer jacket with clean lines, hitting at the mid-thigh or knee. A wool trench coat is great, especially belted!

R:What’s your favorite way to wear the flare?P: I have two favorites! I love them with a classic blazer, an easy layering tank or cashmere tee, and my tallest pointy-toed pumps, but they’re also great with a cropped sweater and oxfords or ’70s-inspired wedges.

R:I feel a shopping itch coming on. Which is your favorite pair from our collection, to get me started in my quest?P: The High Rise Bell Jeans by Current/Elliott, in Patriot Blue. Amazing wash and perfect rise!